The NFL is once again expanding its borders. League executives confirmed on Tuesday that they intend to add two more international regular-season games in 2026.
The announcement signals another major step in the league’s ongoing effort to build a truly global schedule. Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in hosting a game, although no agreement has been finalized. What is confirmed is that Australia will host its first-ever NFL regular-season game in Melbourne in 2026, while Mexico City will welcome the league back for the first time since 2022.
If the current lineup holds, fans could see three games in the United Kingdom and one each in Ireland, Germany, Spain and Brazil. Adding the new events would raise the total to nine international matchups, which is the current maximum allowed under a 2023 NFL resolution permitting eight league-operated games along with the Jacksonville Jaguars’ annual appearance in London.
The league’s global plan is gaining momentum
NFL senior vice president of international operations Gerrit Meier told Sports Business Journal that the league is moving steadily toward that ceiling. “We have seven games this year, and six of those are league-organized. We believe next year there will be more than that,” Meier said.
That steady increase matches Commissioner Roger Goodell’s long-term vision of reaching 16 international games per season, a schedule that would eventually give every team at least one opportunity to play abroad. The NFL is also exploring the idea of hosting multiple games in the same country, as it currently does in the United Kingdom.
There is some uncertainty surrounding Ireland’s spot in the 2026 rotation. If Dublin does not return, the league may look to introduce another new market.
What comes next for fans and teams
The exact teams, venues and dates will be announced closer to the 2026 schedule release. Behind the scenes, the league continues to evaluate stadium readiness, travel logistics and local partnerships that can sustain long-term fan engagement.
Goodell and Meier have made their goals clear: the NFL wants to be a truly global sport, with fans around the world able to experience games in person. Adding two more contests in 2026 may seem like a small adjustment, but it represents another strategic step toward that goal.
As the international series evolves, it has become more than a showcase for football. It is a statement of intent, a sign that the NFL is not just bringing games abroad but building a worldwide community around the sport.
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